In Defense of My Reputation

Posted on August 15th, 2026

"Who steals my purse steals trash... But he that filches from me my good name robs me of that which not enriches him, and makes me poor indeed."
— William Shakespeare, Othello (Act 3, Scene 3)

A person's professional reputation is one of the most valuable assets they possess. It is earned through years of education, experience, integrity, and hard work. Once damaged by false or misleading statements, the consequences can extend far beyond financial loss, affecting professional opportunities, personal relationships, and public trust.

Beginning in 2018, Aurora Advisors Incorporated and Susan Webber, in conjunction with Michael Hiltzek at the LA Times, have published and repeatedly republished statements concerning me that I maintain are false, misleading, and defamatory. Those publications have remained available online for years and have been cited in subsequent articles and fundraising materials. Despite my objections and my efforts to correct the record, the publications continue to circulate.

I have pursued every lawful avenue available to protect my reputation. Although the Maryland courts concluded that they lacked personal jurisdiction over the defendants, no court has adjudicated the merits of my claims. The substantive issues regarding the truth or falsity of the publications remain unresolved.

This matter is not about suppressing legitimate journalism or criticism. It is about accountability when investigative reporting allegedly crosses the line into falsehood and causes lasting injury to another person's reputation and livelihood.

Accordingly, I intend to continue pursuing all lawful remedies available until one of two things occurs:

• the defendants retract and remove the false statements and correct the public record; or

• a court of competent jurisdiction determines the merits of my claims.

I believe that truth, fairness, and due process ultimately prevail. My objective is not revenge, but accountability, correction of the record, and the restoration of my professional reputation.

I will continue to update this page as the litigation progresses.

Legal Notice: The statements on this page reflect my position regarding ongoing and concluded litigation. Nothing on this page should be construed as a waiver of any legal rights or remedies available to me.